Filipino-American designers Kenneth Barlis and Bessie Besana brought their remarkable creativity to this year's New York Fashion Week, spotlighting Filipino talent on the global fashion stage.
Kenneth Barlis: A Bold Return to NYFW
On February 6, Kenneth Barlis, a Filipino-American designer based in Hollywood, returned to New York Fashion Week with his Fall/Winter 2025 collection. The show, held at the Angel Orensanz Center, featured 20 stunning looks blending luxury with urban chic. Barlis, the only Filipino designer in this year’s lineup, showcased both womenswear and menswear adorned with intricate embroidery, ruffles, feathers, and Swarovski crystals. Drawing inspiration from his recent trip to Hawaii, Barlis infused vibrant colors from Birds of Paradise flowers into his designs, capturing both the energy of New York and the tranquility of nature.
Bessie Besana: A Historic Filipino Showcase
Two days later, New York-based designer Bessie Besana made history with his bridal collection at the FILIPINXT runway show at 4W43 in Manhattan. This groundbreaking event marked the first official Filipino show listed on the NYFW calendar, curated by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and co-presented by the Philippine Consulate General. Besana’s collection, featuring modern bridal silhouettes with meticulous tailoring, was praised for its elegance and innovation, celebrating the artistry of Filipino designers on the world stage.
Filipino Fashion: A Rising Force
The success of Barlis and Besana underscores the growing influence of Filipino designers in global fashion. Their achievements at NYFW highlight the importance of community support and the unique contributions Filipino talent brings to the industry.
